Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Fiorentina star Nico Gonzalez as they anticipate the departure of Miguel Almiron.
The 26-year-old winger, one of Serie A’s top performers, scored 16 goals and provided five assists across all competitions last season.
Gonzalez also impressed for Argentina in the Copa America, playing in all but one game, including the final where they defeated Colombia 1-0 after extra time.
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Last summer, Brentford had a €40m (approx. £34m) bid for Gonzalez rejected, and convincing him to join the Bees would have been challenging.
However, a move to Newcastle, who are aiming for a top-six finish this season, presents a more attractive prospect. Eddie Howe’s side could bid for him soon, as the Magpies are open to selling Almiron, who is linked with a move to Saudi Arabia this summer.
Newcastle believes they can recoup £30m from the sale of the 30-year-old and will use that to fund a new winger to replace him.
As revealed exclusively on Tuesday, Chelsea star Noni Madueke, 22, is another player Newcastle is monitoring, with the Blues willing to sell him for £40m.
Gonzalez could be a more experienced and potentially cheaper option, but luring him away from Fiorentina will not be straightforward.
Newcastle’s interest in Gonzalez is shared by Juventus and Atalanta, and reports from Italy suggest €30m (approx. £25.5m) could secure his transfer this summer. Gonzalez is expected to meet with Fiorentina on Monday to express his desire to leave.
Fiorentina would prefer to sell Gonzalez to Newcastle rather than Juventus due to longstanding animosity between the clubs.
Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon continues to be linked with a move to Liverpool, but Newcastle is determined to retain the England star. They plan to open contract talks with Gordon upon his return from holiday to quell any speculation about his future.
Newcastle is not under immediate pressure to sell and is focusing on incoming transfers rather than outgoings.
Crystal Palace center-back Marc Guehi is Howe’s top defensive target. Newcastle has initiated talks with the Eagles about a move for the former Chelsea player, and sources indicate Guehi is open to discussions with the Magpies.
Palace is expected to demand over £65m for Guehi, as Oliver Glasner considers him a vital part of his squad.
